Classes in astr

ASTR 1 Introduction to General Astronomy 3.0 units
Description: An introduction to the realm of astronomy and space science. Topics to be covered include the historical development of astronomy, the physics of gravitation and radiation, the solar system, stellar astronomy, galactic and extragalactic astronomy, and cosmology. ADVISORY: Mathematics 430 or skills equivalent to those in an Elementary Algebra course and college level reading and writing skills.

Student Learning Outcomes:

1. Describe the basic development of astronomy beginning with astrological foundations of ancient civilizations through modern day theories.
2. Describe the principle motions of the earth, moon, and other solar system members.
3. Describe the basic physics of light, and distinguish between various types of telescopes.
4. Describe the basic composition and construction of the solar system and its origin.
5. Compare and contrast the principle differences between the Terrestrial and Jovian Planets.
6. Describe, compare and contrast the differing properties of stars, and describe accurately their evolutionary processes.
7. Describe the properties of the Milky Way galaxy, and differentiate between other external galaxies.
8. Describe the evolution of the universe, and contrast various models on the further evolution of the universe.


ASTR 1L General Astronomy Laboratory 1.0 units
Description: This course provides fundamental laboratory study and hands-on examination of the concepts covered in ASTR 1.

Student Learning Outcomes:

1. 1. Use star atlases and celestial coordinates to locate and identify heavenly bodies. 2. Critically observe a wide range of representative astronomical phenomena and objects and effectively record these observations. 3. Measure a distance by parallax. 4. Observe and distinguish the various types of astronomical spectra. 5. Measure the fundamental properties of planetary orbits. 6. Construct an approximate planetary orbit from observational data using the method of greatest elongation and sidereal sightings. 7. Work out the approximate parameters of a simple interplanetary voyage. 8. Determine the mass of a planet from observations of its moons. 9. Determine how the shape of a constellation will change over long time periods. 10. Simulate the random motion of gamma rays in the solar radiative zone and explain the significance of these random motions. 11. Use planetarium software to plan a night's observations. 12. Determine the basic properties of the Moon, including its distance and diameter, from observations. 13. Analyze the spectra of galaxies and quasars to determine the nature of the expanding universe. 14. Effectively work in group situations while carrying out scientific investigations. 15. Create a processed image of diffuse astronomical objects. 16. (in-person only) Effectively operate a Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope. 16. (online only) Lay out a history of the entire universe according to the Big Bang theory, showing the proper relationship between the epochs that mark its evolution.